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Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors
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Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Behavioral and Mental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 November 2024 | Viewed by 12142

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Iván Sánchez-Iglesias

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychobiology & Behavioral Sciences Methods, Complutense University of Madrid, 28223 Madrid, Spain
Interests: psychometrics; behavioral sciences; gaming; substance abuse; research methods; causality; effect size indices

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,  

This Special Issue is an opportunity to address mental health, stigma, and addictive behaviors, as well as their consequences and risk factors from a psychological point of view. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an interdisciplinary journal, covering topics as varied as climate change, infectious disease epidemiology, healthcare services, or environmental Earth science, amongst many others. Scientific research in psychology relates to most—if not all—of those topics, as they all involve human-related activities. 

Mental health problems, broadly understood, are highly prevalent. Depression, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace are just some of the disorders so frequent that we forget their great impact on health and on the functioning of society. When it comes to severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, we may encounter stigmatization, prejudice, and discrimination towards the people who suffer from them. 

However, stigma is also related to other populations, such as homeless people or people with intellectual disabilities. There may even be comorbidity between these conditions and mental health problems. Other factors—such as gender—seem to be related, and their study may have an impact on social and equity policies. 

Other health-related problems, such as addictions and other addictive behaviors, are also topics that are expected to appear in this Special Issue. Compulsive gambling, video gaming, and substance abuse—among others—are so prevalent that they become a public-health issue. 

Potential topics include (but are not limited to):

  • Mental health and economic factors;
  • Mental health and homelessness;
  • The stigma of mental health;
  • Prevention of stigma related to intellectual disability;
  • Compulsive gambling;
  • Internet gaming disorders;
  • Other addictive behaviors;
  • Self-regulation and addictive behaviors;
  • Interventions in substance abuse;
  • Relapse prevention in the treatment of substance abuse.

Dr. Iván Sánchez-Iglesias
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • mental health
  • stigma
  • mental disorder
  • intellectual disability
  • homelessness
  • addictive behavior
  • addiction
  • substance abuse
  • gaming disorder
  • gambling

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

7 pages, 703 KiB  
Editorial
The “Why” in Mental Health, Stigma, and Addictive Behaviors: Causal Inferences in Applied Settings
by Iván Sánchez-Iglesias
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(20), 6915; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20206915 - 13 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1379
Abstract
Mental health problems, broadly understood, are highly prevalent [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

12 pages, 322 KiB  
Article
Initial Validation of a Behavioral Phenotyping Model for Substance Use Disorder
by Lori Keyser-Marcus, Tatiana Ramey, James M. Bjork, Caitlin E. Martin, Roy Sabo and F. Gerard Moeller
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21010014 - 21 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1343
Abstract
Standard nosological systems, such as DSM-5 or ICD-10, are relied upon as the diagnostic basis when developing treatments for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Unfortunately, the vast heterogeneity of individuals within a given SUD diagnosis results in a variable treatment response and/or [...] Read more.
Standard nosological systems, such as DSM-5 or ICD-10, are relied upon as the diagnostic basis when developing treatments for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Unfortunately, the vast heterogeneity of individuals within a given SUD diagnosis results in a variable treatment response and/or difficulties ascertaining the efficacy signal in clinical trials of drug development. Emerging precision medicine methods focusing on targeted treatments based on phenotypic subtypes rather than diagnosis are being explored as alternatives. The goal of the present study was to provide initial validation of emergent subtypes identified by an addiction-focused phenotyping battery. Secondary data collected as part of a feasibility study of the NIDA phenotyping battery were utilized. Participants completed self-report measures and behavioral tasks across six neurofunctional domains. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA/CFA) were conducted. A three-factor model consisting of negative emotionality, attention/concentration, and interoception and mindfulness, as well as a four-factor model adding a second negative emotion domain, emerged from the EFA as candidate models. The CFA of these models did not result in a good fit, possibly resulting from small sample sizes that hindered statistical power. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
13 pages, 369 KiB  
Article
Video Game Playing and Internet Gaming Disorder: A Profile of Young Adolescents
by Marta Labrador, Iván Sánchez-Iglesias, Mónica Bernaldo-de-Quirós, Francisco J. Estupiñá, Ignacio Fernandez-Arias, Marina Vallejo-Achón and Francisco J. Labrador
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(24), 7155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20247155 - 8 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1611
Abstract
In recent times, growing concern has arisen regarding the utilization of technology, video games, and the emergence of internet gaming disorder (IGD), particularly among young adolescents. This worry arises from the ambiguity in distinguishing between “normal” and “problematic” video game behavior, despite efforts [...] Read more.
In recent times, growing concern has arisen regarding the utilization of technology, video games, and the emergence of internet gaming disorder (IGD), particularly among young adolescents. This worry arises from the ambiguity in distinguishing between “normal” and “problematic” video game behavior, despite efforts to establish clear criteria for defining both. The goal of this study is to outline distinct profiles of adolescent video game players and identify variables associated with their gaming practices that correlate with problematic gaming. The study utilizes a substantial sample of adolescents drawn from a representative cross-section of educational institutions in the city of Madrid, ranging in age from 12 to 16 years. In total, 1516 participants (75%) acknowledged engaging in video game activities. The research delves into characterizing prevailing profiles of video game participants within this cohort and scrutinizes the profile that aligns with issues of IGD. In summary, approximately three-quarters of young adolescents participate in video gaming, with males constituting the majority. Typically, participants immerse themselves in action genre games for over three days per week, with males exhibiting a higher frequency than their female counterparts. Elevated gaming frequency correlates with heightened IGD scores, particularly among females. Young adolescents show a preference for game consoles (males) and mobile phones (females) and often play alone at home. Specific factors such as the device used, online mode, company, and gaming location impact the IGD scores. These profiles aim to assist families and educators in recognizing potential risk behaviors and IGD concerns; however, it is crucial to emphasize the necessity for case-specific screening and evaluation before deliberating on such behaviors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
12 pages, 355 KiB  
Article
The Profile of Bullying Perpetrators and Victims and Associated Factors among High School Learners in Tshwane District, South Africa
by Dudu Shiba and Kebogile Elizabeth Mokwena
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(6), 4916; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20064916 - 10 Mar 2023
Viewed by 2138
Abstract
Although bullying in South African schools remains a current public health and education discussion, the view has been limited to acts of criminality, and not much has been done to identify risk factors for being bullying perpetrators and victims in a school environment. [...] Read more.
Although bullying in South African schools remains a current public health and education discussion, the view has been limited to acts of criminality, and not much has been done to identify risk factors for being bullying perpetrators and victims in a school environment. This study used a cross sectional quantitative survey to determine the profile of bullying perpetrators and victims among high school learners in a township in Pretoria. The Illinois Bully Scale was used to screen for bullying perpetration and victimization, whilst the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to screen for depression and anxiety symptoms, respectively, among the sample of learners. STATA version 14 was used for data analysis. The sample of 460 consisted of 69% females with a mean age of 15 years. The 73.91% of learners who fitted the categories of bullying consisted of 21.96% victims, 9.57% perpetrators, and 42.39% perpetrator–victims. The Pearson Chi2 test of association found a significant association between being a bullying victim and reported lack of people who loved and cared for the learner. Being a bullying perpetrator was associated with anxiety symptoms of the learner and home alcohol use, while being a perpetrator –victim was associated with lack of family love and care, the school attended, as well as depression and anxiety symptoms. Using multivariate logistic regression, being a perpetrator–victim was associated with depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and home use of alcohol whilst being a perpetrator was associated with lack of anxiety symptoms. The study concluded that anxiety, depression, and the home environment are strongly associated with bullying, and most learners fitted the category of being both perpetrators and victims. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
15 pages, 798 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Mental and Physical Health Symptomatology Scale in a Sample of Emerging and Migrant Adults in Chile
by Ana Barrera-Herrera, María José Baeza-Rivera, Camila Salazar-Fernández and Diego Manríquez-Robles
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(6), 4684; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20064684 - 7 Mar 2023
Viewed by 1440
Abstract
Health inequities exist in groups of greater psychosocial vulnerability such as emerging adults and migrants. The study aimed to generate evidence of the validity of the mental and physical health symptomatology scale in two samples of vulnerable groups: emerging university adults, who report [...] Read more.
Health inequities exist in groups of greater psychosocial vulnerability such as emerging adults and migrants. The study aimed to generate evidence of the validity of the mental and physical health symptomatology scale in two samples of vulnerable groups: emerging university adults, who report high levels of mental health problems, and migrants, who report high levels of physical and mental health problems. Using non-probability sampling, in the first study, evidence of construct validity of the scale was reported in 652 emerging adults and, in the second, evidence of validity was provided from associations with the depression, stress and anxiety scale (DASS-21) among 283 migrants. The results indicate that in Study 1 the two-factor model had adequate indicators of fit and adequate reliability; only the mental health factor presented evidence of convergent validity. In Study 2, the mental health factor showed positive and large associations with the DASS-21, which decreased when the physical health symptoms factor was considered. These analyses provide evidence of validity for the scale, which is an easy-to-use instrument that allows for the assessment of health from an integral perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
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15 pages, 699 KiB  
Article
Interprofessional Training on Substance Misuse and Addiction: A Longitudinal Assessment of a Brazilian Experience
by Liz Paola Domingues, Elaine Lucas Dos Santos, Danilo Polverini Locatelli, André Bedendo and Ana Regina Noto
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021478 - 13 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1226
Abstract
Although several trainings have been offered to improve professional expertise on alcohol and other drugs, few have used an interdisciplinary approach and evaluated long-term improvements in the professional’s work routine. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of an interprofessional training program on [...] Read more.
Although several trainings have been offered to improve professional expertise on alcohol and other drugs, few have used an interdisciplinary approach and evaluated long-term improvements in the professional’s work routine. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of an interprofessional training program on alcohol and other drugs offered by a Regional Reference Center for Drugs of the Federal University of São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: the evaluation was carried out longitudinally using mixed methods (questionnaires (n = 29–177) and semistructured interviews (n = 28)). The participants were current workers from public institutions of health, education, social assistance, justice, and security system who attended the training. Data were collected at the beginning, the end, and one year after the end of the training. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed for quantitative data and thematic content analyses for qualitative data. Results: professionals who attended the training enhanced their understanding of substance-related issues, reduced stigma, changed their attitude, and improved their networking among the different services providing care to users. The main characteristics related to these outcomes were the interprofessional and biopsychosocial approach, and the experiential activities developed during the training. Most participants reported difficulties in implementing changes in their work routine, but those in managerial roles have reported having more autonomy to carry out such changes. Conclusions: the mixed methods converged in terms of their results. The training promoted a better understanding of issues related to substance use disorders, reduced stigma and expanded the repertoire of skills. The interprofessional and biopsychosocial approach and field activities seem to be related to these outcomes. The potential for implementing changes in daily practice was prominent among those occupying a managerial role. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
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Review

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34 pages, 579 KiB  
Review
Potential Mechanisms of Action and Outcomes of Equine-Assisted Services for Veterans with a History of Trauma: A Narrative Review of the Literature
by William R. Marchand
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(14), 6377; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20146377 - 16 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2326
Abstract
Equine-assisted services (EASs) are being increasingly used as complementary interventions for military veterans who have experienced trauma. However, there is limited evidence of benefit for this population and almost no literature describing the desired potential outcomes and possible mechanisms of action. The aim [...] Read more.
Equine-assisted services (EASs) are being increasingly used as complementary interventions for military veterans who have experienced trauma. However, there is limited evidence of benefit for this population and almost no literature describing the desired potential outcomes and possible mechanisms of action. The aim of this article is to address these gaps by reviewing the extant literature of animal-assisted interventions in general, and equine-assisted services in particular, with the goal of providing guidance for future investigations in the field. Currently, the field is in the early stage of scientific development, but published results are promising. Interventions that enhance treatment compliance and/or outcomes could benefit this population. Preliminary results, reviewed herein, indicate that EAS interventions might benefit the military veteran population by enhancing treatment engagement and therapeutic alliance, as well as by contributing to symptom reduction and resulting in various transdiagnostic benefits. It is recommended that future studies include exploration of potential beneficial outcomes discussed herein, as well as investigate suggested mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health, Stigma and Addictive Behaviors)
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Outcomes and potential mechanisms of action of equine-assisted services for Veterans with a history of trauma
Author: Marchand
Highlights: - Equine-assisted interventions are being increasingly used for Veterans who have experienced trauma - The field is in the early stage of scientific development and rigorous studies are needed - This article provides guidance for future studies of outcomes and mechanisms of action

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